Nordic Audio Labs Microphones

A new path in the forest of sound

Nordic Audio Labs is not just a brand of microphones. It is the realization of a 30-year-long dream that began when Martin Kantola, founder, CEO and head designer, fell in love with the sound of his first vintage microphone: a 1953 Neumann U47. That sound, rich with emotion and presence, ignited in him the spark that would lead him to devote his life to creating instruments capable of capturing not just audio, but the soul of performance.

A revolutionary approach to microphone design

After decades of experience as a sound engineer, designer, and technician, in 2019 Martin decided to revolutionize his approach to condenser microphones. The first step is radical: to design a capsule from scratch, without relying on classic German designs such as the M7 or K47. A bold choice, carried out "by ear," with a handcrafted process of daily trial and error, listening and refinement. This unique capsule is the beating heart of Nordic Audio Labs microphones.

FloFET™: the tube soul, without tubes

The second step is even bolder: replacing tubes and transformers with proprietary analog circuits that can emulate their sonic behavior. Thus was born FloFET™, a technology capable of generating harmonics and dynamic responses similar to those of tube circuits, but without the limitations imposed by vintage components. The result? Modern, reliable, easily repairable microphones, but with a warm, three-dimensional, alive sound.

A philosophy built in nature

Each microphone is hand-built in Finland, in the laboratory-studio in Karperö, nestled in the woods. It is nature itself, Martin says, that inspires his work: walking among the trees suggests to him the sound textures to look for, the emotions to evoke. This philosophy is reflected in every detail, from capsule design to choice of materials, from circuit design to final voicing.

Prestigious artists and collaborations

Over time, Nordic Audio Labs has won over engineers and artists around the world. Björk used the first prototype, the NU-47, in many of her recordings; Bruce Swedien (Michael Jackson's longtime engineer) not only adopted the microphone, but became a key mentor and collaborator in the development of subsequent models.

An ever-evolving range

The current range includes microphones such as:

• NU-100K, designed for vocals and solo instruments, with "silky" sound and exceptional dynamics
• NU-880K, stereo multi-capsule microphone
• NU-314K, true pressure omni
• NU-47VS3, the sound of the classic U47, without historical capsules or valves
• NU-24K, latest (2025), small but powerful, designed for vocals with great output and affordable price

Each model is an expression of a consistent philosophy: radical innovation, absolute craftsmanship, attention to listening.

A family project, a shared vision

What began as one man's dream is now a family and collective reality. Together with his wife Suvi Kantola and an international team of seven, Martin continues to chart a new course in the world of professional audio.

A new sound, a new emotion

Nordic Audio Labs is a new path in the forest. A new way of listening, hearing, and recording. A look to the past, but with tools designed for the future.